Can flirting be healthy and respectful? Can it exist between pen friends?

Can flirting be profound, respectful, beautiful, meaningful, romantic and at the same time joyful and healthy? I am a 25 year old boy who lives in a religiously rigid society which forbids us from talking to the opposite much less anything else. I am seeking salvation through emails and a possible female pen friend. I am like a distant star. I shine, I burn, I am not cold, but I hope someone can find me in this dark sky?